Refs miked up for Hyundai A-League Finals

In a fascinating new viewer experience initiative, referees will be miked up as part of FOX SPORTS’ coverage of all five matches in the Hyundai A-League 2014 Finals Series.

TV viewers will be able to listen to the referees outlining decisions to the players as the Hyundai A-League seeks to enhance the viewer experience at the business end of the 2013/14 season.

Brisbane Roar, Western Sydney Wanderers, Central Coast Mariners, Melbourne Victory, Sydney FC and Adelaide United will battle it out in the sudden death Hyundai A-League 2014 Finals Series, presented by FOXTEL.

All five Hyundai A-League 2014 Finals Series matches will be broadcast LIVE on FOX SPORTS and on a one-hour delay on SBS 2.

The referee microphone trial starts on Friday night with fans treated to the first taste of referee audio for the bumper clash between rivals Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC at the scene of the 2010 Grand Final – Etihad Stadium.

The microphone initiative will also be used in the Hyundai A-League Grand Final.

“Broadcasting is constantly evolving to give TV viewers an increasing insight into live sport and we’re excited to work with FOX SPORTS to take football fans closer than they have ever been with an extra microphone on the field of play,” said Football Federation Australia CEO David Gallop.

“We believe the extra microphone is a significant step forward and gives fans a greater insight into what’s happening on the pitch.

“Sports fans around the world are privileged to be able to hear the thoughts of the referees and we’re pleased Hyundai A-League fans will be able to experience this as we move into a thrilling Finals Series.”

The microphones will not be broadcast live but used as part of the FOX SPORTS coverage.

FOX SPORTS CEO, Patrick Delany, said: “This is a massive development for football in Australia and we applaud the FFA for working with us to bring this innovation to life.

“Fans of other codes are now accustomed to hearing the reasoning for key decisions made during matches directly from the referee. Now football fans can experience that same level of insight throughout the Hyundai A-League Finals Series.

“Not only will every match of the finals series be aired exclusively LIVE in HD on FOX SPORTS, the referee audio and our famous in-play innovations will take fans closer to the game than they have ever been.”